Former India keeper-batter Parthiv Patel has spoken about India Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill and his captaincy style. He has observed Gill from close quarters, as Patel has been the batting coach of the Indian Premier League side Gujarat Titans, which is captained by Gill as well.
Parthiv Patel believes that the young Indian captain's decisive and outspoken character will make him a natural leader.
The 40-year-old former Indian wicketkeeper collaborated with Gill during the last Indian Premier League season and was struck by his "inclusive nature," which is a fundamental characteristic of a good leader.
“Gautam (Gambhir) has spent extensive time with him now, but from what I have seen of him (Gill), he does prepare a lot for all kinds of situations, and I have seen over one season the assertiveness of his decisions, and he is very sure of what he wants to do.
In Shubman’s leadership, there is either “Yes" or “No." There is no place for "maybe." As a leader and captain, you need to have that assertiveness about the decisions you take, and he definitely has that," Parthiv Patel said to PTI.
While there has been significant disagreement regarding Gill's rapid advancement to multi-format leadership, Parthiv believes it is a "progressive decision" that will improve Indian cricket. Shubman Gill replaced Rohit Sharma as India’s Test captain after his retirement ahead of the England Test series in July and was recently named the India ODI captain, replacing Rohit Sharma at the helm.
"Shubman has shown leadership skills leading Gujarat Titans in the IPL for the past two years, and with how he led the Test side in England, it is a great decision (to elevate him), and we are moving in the right direction," Parthiv said.
During his time with GT last season, Parthiv noticed Gill's adaptability in understanding various circumstances. Parthiv claims that he does not have a definite set of ideas.
“He is always open to suggestions. As a leader, he is an inclusive person, and that’s what you want in a captain," said Parthiv.
Shubman Gill has had a terrific start to his India Test captaincy, with a 2-2 draw in England and nearly a 2-0 series win over the West Indies at home.
(PTI inputs)
